If you’ve ever been in a store staring at those shiny Amazon, Starbucks, Visa, or Target gift cards and thought, “Can I use my credit card to buy one of these?” — you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions shoppers ask, and the answer is actually pretty simple:
👉 Yes, you can buy gift cards with a credit card — but there are rules, limits, and a few smart things to know before you swipe.
Whether you’re trying to earn rewards, hit a spending bonus, or just buy a last-minute gift, knowing how gift card purchases work can save you fees, frustration, and declined transactions. Let’s break it down in the clearest, most human-friendly way.
Why People Buy Gift Cards With a Credit Card
Gift cards aren’t just for gifting anymore — people use them for budgeting, reselling, rewards hacking, or simplifying holiday spending.
Here’s why this move is so popular:
1. You Earn Cashback, Points, or Miles
Buying a $100 gift card on a rewards credit card can earn:
- cashback
- reward points
- airline miles
- sign-up-bonus spending requirement
Some people buy gift cards to stores they already shop at (like Amazon, Walmart, Costco, Target) to stack rewards.
2. Perfect for Last-Minute Gifts
No idea what to get someone? A gift card always works. Paying with a credit card makes it easy and trackable.
3. Helps With Budgeting
People often load a set amount on a grocery, fuel, or shopping gift card at the start of the month.
It helps prevent overspending.
Where Can You Buy Gift Cards With a Credit Card?
Most mainstream stores allow it:
✔ Walmart
✔ Target
✔ Best Buy
✔ Grocery stores
✔ Gas stations
✔ Convenience stores
✔ Online stores (Amazon, Flipkart, etc.)
Store gift cards (like Starbucks, Sephora, Uber, Netflix) rarely have restrictions.
BUT… prepaid network cards like Visa, Mastercard, and Amex sometimes have tighter rules.
When Buying Gift Cards With a Credit Card Might Be Restricted
Different retailers have different policies. You may run into issues in these situations:
1. Buying Visa, Mastercard, or Amex Prepaid Cards
These are the most restricted because they act like cash.
Many stores allow them — but:
- some require ID
- some limit quantity
- some deny credit card payment entirely
2. Buying High-Value or Multiple Cards
Large transactions may trigger fraud checks or store verification.
If you’re buying ₹10,000/$200 worth of cards, expect questions.
3. Buying at Stores With Strict Fraud Policies
Some stores simply refuse credit cards for gift card purchases to avoid chargebacks and scams.
Will It Be Treated as a Cash Advance? (IMPORTANT!)
Most store gift cards are NOT coded as cash advances.
But some prepaid Visa/Mastercard/Amex cards can be, depending on:
- your bank
- merchant category code (MCC)
- purchase amount
A cash advance is BAD because:
❌ higher APR
❌ interest starts immediately
❌ cash-advance fee applies
❌ no rewards earned
➡️ Always check your card terms before buying prepaid Visa/Mastercard cards.
Are There Fees When Buying Gift Cards With a Credit Card?
Store gift cards = No fees (usually)
Amazon, Target, Starbucks, etc. come with no activation fee.
Visa/Mastercard/Amex gift cards = Activation fees
Common fees:
₹250–₹450 ($4.95–$6.95 in US/Canada)
These fees make sense only if:
✔ you need a flexible gift
✔ you earn big credit card rewards
✔ you’re hitting a spending bonus
How to Buy Gift Cards Safely With a Credit Card
Buying gift cards is safe when you follow these simple rules:
1. Buy only from reputable stores
Avoid online marketplaces selling discounted or “resell” gift cards — fraud is common.
2. Always keep the receipt
If the card fails to activate, you’ll need it.
3. Don’t buy damaged or tampered cards
Look for scratched-off PIN areas or torn packaging — walk away.
4. Check your credit card statement
Make sure the transaction was not coded as a cash advance.
5. Don’t buy in bulk unless necessary
Large purchases get flagged.
Best Places to Buy Gift Cards With a Credit Card (Safest Options)
Online
- Amazon
- Walmart
- Target
- Best Buy
- Apple
- Google Play
In-Store
- Grocery stores (Kroger, Safeway)
- Gas stations
- Big box stores
- Pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens)
FAQs
1. Can I buy a Visa or Mastercard gift card with a credit card?
Yes, but some stores restrict it due to fraud risks. Activation fees apply, and some cards may be coded as cash advances.
2. Do gift card purchases earn credit card rewards?
Yes! Many people use this trick to earn cashback, miles, or reach a spending bonus.
3. Is buying gift cards with a credit card safe?
Yes — as long as you buy from reputable retailers and avoid suspicious online sellers.
4. Why did my credit card get declined when buying a gift card?
Possible reasons: fraud prevention, store restrictions, purchase limits, or cash-advance rules.
5. Can I return a gift card bought with a credit card?
Most stores say no — gift cards are usually final sale.